In the first chapter of Daniel we have the historical account of Babylon conquering Jerusalem and taking God’s people captive. Now in what might at first be interpreted to be a stroke of luck in an otherwise terrible situation – Daniel and the other promising young men of Israel are chosen for special training to serve in the kings court.
One of the seemingly apparent and immediate “benefits” of this appointment is that Daniel will get to eat of the “Royal” diet of Babylon. Daniel 1:5 Now we might say “that’s cool, what a break for Daniel. He started out as a prisoner of war – lucky to be alive – and now he ends up in special training for the King of Babylon eating the best food in the land.But, it is only as we see Daniel response to this that we can began to get God’s perspective on this situation and learn valuable truth for His people today. Daniel’s response is given in Daniel 1:8
Daniel says – No thank you. Can I have something else – I do not wish to defile myself with the food of Ancient Babylon. Now you can imagine the risk he was taking, to shun the Kings hospitality and turn his nose to the food he served.
Why would Daniel do such a thing? Was he just being a spoiled brat, longing for the food of his mother at home? Or, is there an important Biblical principle involved here that we need to understand? Let’s continue with the story. Daniel 1:12 shows us an unusual request that he made.
Now the picture begins to emerge. Daniel apparently has problems with the food and drink of Babylon and asks for vegetables and water instead. He says test us and you will see that this is better for us.
Now lets see the results of that little experiment. Daniel 1: 20 How many would like something that would make you 10x smarter?
Now, I believe this has a rich spiritual application. Remember in the next chapter Daniel 2, that it is was Daniel who God used to reveal truth.
Then of course, in chapter 3 it was Daniel’s friends who would prove faithful in that great test of faith. Well, what does this have to do with us who live here on the verge of the Kingdom?
First of all, Daniel and his friends understood an important Biblical principle concerning God’s will for man in the area of his diet and its relationship to spiritual truth.
Daniel’s life example illustrates an important teaching of the Scriptures, which is most relevant to Christians living so close to the end of time. --- Those who will be tested and tried in the great events mentioned in the rest of Daniel and Revelation.
In the New Testament it states that events of the past experience of the people of God are valuable lessons for us living today. I Cor. 10:11 For an example and admonition for those living in the last days. This brings me to some practical implications for us today as we realize the effects of failing to know God’s Word and will.
Not too long ago a survey taken in a certain American city – where people answered 156 questions – revealed that the thing people are most interested in today is health. It’s not politics, sports, or even wealth, but health.
What a paradoxical age is the one in which we live. At a time when we have more doctors, hospitals, medicines, more medical knowledge of the care, treatments and cure of disease… More pills, capsules, vitamins, etc… yet seldom has there been a time when more sickness and general ill health has plagued the human race.
The common cold still hasn’t been cured, cancer on the increase – every minute someone dies for this dreaded disease Heart Disease and other terrible diseases such as AIDS is sweeping the country now. Millions, I believe, are suffering the side effects of wrong living habits and harmful eating and drinking. We live in a world shattered by pain. The cries of sick and diseased are the trademarks of modern society.
In spite of the incredible programs in medical research amounting to trillions of Dollars annually, physical health is still on of the most serious problems our society faces. Health care and Medical costs is one of the Greatest Challenges and Largest Industries in the World. Even those financially secure can hardly afford medical care in many instances today.
The Four Killer Diseases continue at alarming rates. And this crisis is more to this than just a sharp pain in our wallet. People turn in all directions today looking for an answer to this problem. Look to the government for solution – A Federal Health Plan. Today, many people turn to alternatives as they realize that drugs are not the solution they promised to be.
But, the Bible gives simple concise answers to these great questions facing modern humanity. The billions spent in areas of heart disease and cancer could be almost completely prevented, I believe by following God’s plan for health.
Look at an interesting text in: Exodus 15:26 These words show clearly – anyone can actually postpone their own funeral by obeying laws of God concerning health and diet that are given in the Holy Bible. The Bible shows not God’s will for us to die of dreadful diseases. III John 2
Why then is there so much suffering and diseases? Because the majority are violating laws of our being – It’s our own lifestyle that is killing us! There are laws of health and body just as laws of nature. If you fall off a roof – law of gravity – you go down. If we violate health laws – suffer inevitable consequences – Health is not a matter of chance.
For a time experts were puzzled that cancer continues to increase. Not anymore, amazing research data shows we can easily understand in light of Americans eating, living and smoking practices. It will doubtless increase until more people have the moral courage to say no to things we are putting into our bodies.
An interesting fact few realize, 1/3 of all cancers occur in the stomach – ½ of all cancers in digestive organs, liver, intestines, colon. The reason should be obvious – stomach is the most abused organ. It’s unbelievable what goes into stomachs of people. Eat anything that moves – season it up good – and eat it.
No wonder, 50% of the population suffers from being over weight and related illness. Billions dollars spent each year on diet formulas.
Amazing fact – Americans consume 1488 lbs. food every year much of which is not the kind God intended for us to eat. Undoubtedly, a factor in millions hospital patients – everyday.
Ever notice 3/5ths of word of DEATH is EAT? Just thought you might like to know. Could it be that we are actually digging our graves with our teeth?
In medicine today – strange – for every dollar spent, 95% goes to get well – 5% to prevent. Reminds me – tourists in Spain – visit ancient monastery. Only one way up in a basket with rope pulled up by Monks. Coming down – notice rope frayed – asked when changed. Every time it breaks – not much comfort.
More and more medical research says diet has much to do with HEALTH. Old saying is right, “You are what you eat”.
Now dear friends, perhaps you are thinking – what does all this have to do with religion? Why would God be concerned about my eating habits? Isn’t it man’s personal business how care for body? Preacher, you have gone to meddling. These are relevant questions and cannot be ignored. And our wonderful Creator has not left us without Bible answers?
I Corinthians 10:31 Whatever you do – eating or drinking to do it for God’s glory I want you to notice – This is related to heart of important message of Revelation 14:7. “Fear God and give glory to Him”
Amazing – God is concerned about our body. Why? 1 Thessalonians 5:23 We need to know how to possess our bodies in sanctification and honor to glorify God. We are called to holiness – our thinking and choices has much to do with us fulfilling this grand design of God, especially now before Jesus comes.
And, the fact is – God owns us. Now some don’t like this. He did not fabricate delicate human system and then leave it alone. I Corinthians 6:19, 20 He owns us by creation and redemption.
And so dear friends, this reveals fact that proper care not only spiritual obligation – but moral requirement. We cannot say “I’ll do as I please.” We must understand that we can actually rob God by violating the purpose of body to be dwelling place of Holy Spirit. I Corinthians 3: 16, 17
This forever settles the question – We can be lost for defiling the property of God if we rebel against Him. Most people today know more about the care of their car than their body. Why so much ignorance concerning how we should take care of body temple? The Bible assures us that the human body must be taken care of according to rules laid down in the Bible. Most simply follow appetite – put whatever T.V. says.
What are the Bible guidelines? That’s what you are interested in – right? I am glad God knows what is best for us. And apparently Daniel knew God’s plan in this matter. How did he know? Let’s go to the beginning. Genesis 1:29
No one is able to improve – fruits, nuts, grains, and vegetables that is included here. Recognized by leading nutritionists as finest diet possible. None need be reluctant to espouse ideal vegetarian diet. Commanded by perfect God for perfect bodies He created. No argument, or scientific data – challenge wisdom, God’s original arrangement.
Now, I need to say something lest someone gets the wrong idea. – There is no such thing as salvation by proper diet. I am not telling you that you have to become a vegetarian to go to heaven. But, it is obvious that God originally intended for us to be vegetarians. He didn’t intend for Adam and Eve to kill animals for food in the Garden of Eden.
American people departed from simplicity – original recipe. Today, average diet loaded – meat protein, sugars, pastries.
In book, “Diet and Cancer” leading writer Kristin White says, “Diet is the largest single factor in getting or avoiding cancer.”
By the way – they’ve found you don’t need as much protein, get all needed from plant sources. This lowers cholesterol – while animal protein raises it.
Actually, God provided a well rounded, balanced approach for total health. – but perhaps the most vital is diet. Notice the age of man before the flood as compared with after. Genesis 5:27 In beginning meat not allowed. It was introduced after the flood destroyed vegetables. Then only certain meats – notice Genesis 7:2
Notice only 2 of the unclean – 7 of the clean. Don’t miss – fact – unclean animals – at the beginning of time. Many think only the Jews were forbidden to eat unclean animals. Not so, there were no Jews in Noah’s day.
Why extra clean animals into Ark? All vegetation destroyed. For the first time God would allow men to eat meat, but only “clean” meat, certain ones deemed most acceptable – none ideal. If they ate unclean – not exist today – only male and female taken.
How do we know where to draw the line? – Clean and unclean – Do some bathe and others not? Is it only those animals who bath properly – have taken a course in Animal Hygiene? Leviticus 11:2,3,4
Requirements clearly laid out. How fortunate that one who created us tells what to eat and what is not fit for food. We can trust His judgment because He has revealed His great love for us.
All animals which do not have split hoof and chew the cud – not good. Verse 4 No surprise then – what God forbids – devil inspires most. Leviticus 11: 7, 8
Swine – perfect example – why God forbade. Abundant scientific evidence why unfit for food. Contains tiny microscopic worm – Trichinae. Gets into system – trichinosis results. Readers Digest article Dr. Samuel C. Gould – Washington Health Official - average American eats 200 infected meals. U.S. inspected means nothing because every bit of meat would have to pass under a microscope.
Someone says you’re supposed to cook it for a certain length of time at a certain temperature then it’s okay. Right? – That’s what they tell you ladies. Yes, if you like your worms dead, then it’s okay. However, the fact is you may kill the worms but you also incubate the larvae.
God says it’s unclean – an abomination. Can’t we trust Him? He knows what is good for us and what is not. Why were pigs created then? Answer is self evident. Pigs, buzzards, snakes, hyenas – all are scavengers of filth and waste. All creatures have a purpose.
If reason not convince us unclean animals still unclean. Isaiah 66:15-17 They are still considered the same at the 2nd Coming of Jesus.
Now the bad news – Or really it is good news if it comes from God and this book. Some seafood is not fit to eat. Leviticus 11:9, 10 Eliminates oysters, shrimp, crabs, clams, eels, catfish, lobsters, crayfish – I’m sorry – sharks and octopuses should not be ordered either – too bad. Only those with fins and scales counted as clean.
Are there sound scientific reasons for this? Yes, quite common – feed on raw sewage – pollutants. Today’s pollution problems should be enough.
I probably have eaten more than anyone here – born in Louisiana. There are more ways to eat crayfish and catfish than you can believe. I am thankful to our all knowing God for showing me the wonderful truth of the Bible that Daniel knew.
Actually Bible shows us 3 Different Diets – Acceptable, Ideal, Unacceptable
Also not allowed to eat blood in Scripture – Leviticus 3:17 God doesn’t want people created in His image to be like vampires and eat blood.
Now consider how – glorify in what we eat or drink. I Corithians 10:31
Of all popular poisons people are injecting in bodies today, none as deadly as alcohol. I know that it has become the glorified symbol of gracious living. But the fact is – It is the most commonly used drug today, especially among young people. Actually – most malignant social disease known. And when we see what it causes. No wonder Bible says –I Corinthians 6:10
Modern churches lowered standard from total abstinence – say moderation. But not safe – one out of ten start – alcoholics. More divorces, wife beating, murders, stealing, child abuse and immorality caused by alcohol.
Some say Bible endorses use of wine. What does the Bible teach about Alcohol use? Proverbs20:1
Difference between fermented and unfermented – Proverbs 23:31, 33 The Bible uses the word wine to describe both fermented drink and plain grape juice. Jesus did not make fermented wine at the wedding feast.
Destroys brain cells – aiding cause of murder. John 10:10 Would Jesus condone what weakens inhibitions and causes people to lose power of reason - Destroys body temple?
What about tobacco? – Is this something that is in harmony with the will of God as expressed in the Bible? We have known for years the industry has tried to make it appear cool to smoke. Like the Marlboro Man. The fact is it is the single most contributing factor in cancer of the lungs and heart disease. Nicotine – possibly most deadly poison. ½ drop will kill mouse.
Sometimes people ask me, “Do you think it is a sin?” Dr. Oshner – cancer specialist says: “Everyone who smokes will die of cancer if not of something else first.” The Bible says - “You shall not kill.”
Should Christians be hooked on drugs? Caffeine is another dramatic example. Again it’s a powerful habit forming drug. Expectant mothers are warned. Many hooked on caffeine and drinks – drugged every day.
Some use common rationale, “If don’t get coffee (or coke) – get headache.” This is true. Caffeine – member of alkaloid group of drugs such as morphine, cocaine, strychnine. They are telling the truth. Caffeine does take away headache. So would morphine or cocaine. This temporary effect leaves us worse off. Jangled and needing more and more sedation.
Dr. Jean Mayer of Harvard says, “I wish there was something I could say in defense of coffee, but aside from the taste I’m afraid there is really no good news.” Why do you think caffeine added the cold drinks?
The most pathetic proof of the drug slavery is found in expectant mothers. With all accumulating medical evidence proving damaged on the fetuses, pregnant women still pour the poison of alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine, into unborn babies.
Friends, isn’t it something how we go against logic and even scientific evidence when it conflicts with appetite, social customs, etc… Listen folk, should Christians become slaves to chemicals, drugs.
How do I quit? Too many things taken away, too hard. The answer to all these questions found in: Romans 12:1, 2 “Beseech” – implore – beg – earnest to present bodies living sacrifice, not dead.
There is only one way – through Christ – God has provided a way for victory. Divine power promised – John 1:12
Tonight, we have seen Impressive evidence a person can postpone own funeral.
Paul Harvey – “Eat right, live longer.” By following ageless, priceless, divine, principles all can add years and vitality to life. And we ought to start right now. I John 3:2,3 Purifies himself.” As we get ready to meet Jesus.
Remember Daniel – a goodly and pure life – how he was tempted to eat the diet of ancient Babylon? Same diet as today – said no, he would not defile himself with a portion of the king’s diet.
One writer on this subject says: “Daniel’s clearness of mind and firmness of purpose, his strength of intellect were due in great degree to the plainness of his diet in connection with his life of prayer.” CDF 82
Do you have the faith and courage to accept the inspired prescription. Seize it right now as the course, which can prepare you both time and eternity. Also in II Peter 1:3, 4
Jesus says: John 15:5 - But through Him we can do anything He asks of us.
Luke 18: 27
The Apostle Paul said Philippians 4:13 God will give us the power if we ask Him for the victory. I want to begin tonight by recalling a most dramatic experience in the life of the young prophet Daniel.